distance learning yoga certificationBy Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Yoga is a great way for kids to strengthen their bodies while learning healthy ways to deal with life. The  poses allow children to stretch and strengthen their muscles. The breathing exercises keep fresh oxygen flowing through the body, which helps keep it running efficiently. Kids who practice Yoga are less stressed, more confident, and can maintain overall good health. In order to get parents on board with kids’ Yoga, they need to understand the many benefits it provides.  Instructors can approach parents in a number of different ways.

Schedule an Introductory Meeting

Parents, who are new to Yoga, may have a lot of preconceived notions about the practice. They most likely have many questions about the format of the class, and the benefits that it provides for kids. Schedule a parent meeting before the session begins. Introduce the fundamental principles and philosophies behind Yoga, the core poses students will be learning, the benefits of the poses, the meditation and breathing techniques you will teach, and other important information. Let parents know the format of the class, and other things their children can expect, such as music, dancing, and story telling.

Send a Flyer

Yoga teachers can also send home a one-page flyer with details about the class. Highlight some of the fun things the kids will learn, and list the benefits kids’ Yoga provides. Include information about class dates and times. Make sure to add contact information, so parents can contact you by phone or email, if they have questions. Keep it short and eye-catching to avoid information overload.

Encourage Parents to Attend Class

Kids’ Yoga instructors should always extend an open invitation for parents to attend class with their child. Allowing parents to attend, usually satisfies any curiosities they have about class. Make yourself available for specific questions before and after class.

Establish a Home-Class Connection

When kids’ parents are involved in Yoga class, and ask questions about it (eager to hear about their kids’ experiences), it affects how the kids behave during class. Kids with interested parents will most likely be interested as well. Yoga teachers should always encourage children to share what they learn with their parents, and tell them new things they learned during each class. Instructors can keep this conversation flowing by reminding their students to “Show your parents this.” or “Tell your parents you learned how to breathe deeply today.” When a child is excited about Yoga, it’s usually infectious.

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